Whitewater Rafting - Classes of River Difficulty

When rafting through a river's rapids there is sure toClass 3: On this level trip you will experience rough
be a reaction from the participants involved. SomeWhitewater rapids, but with some basic skill, no
people are terrified of the turbulent flows whilethreat to danger is present. The waves will be
others embrace the rushing water with energy andintense and when going through these, larger drops
excitement. One thing is for sure, these rides providewill occur. Skill Level: Experience or athleticism
a rush. Now don't get me wrong, beginner level ridesnecessary for paddling
aren't so scary and for most the ride are quiteClass 4: Class 4 trips require some experience since
relaxing.one will encounter large waves with drops, longer
When planning a white water rafting adventure it israpid runs and rocks to maneuver around. Skill Level:
important to know what kind of ride you are lookingRafting experience needed.
for and feel comfortable with. The best way toClass 5: Class 5 trips are for the experience rafter
determine this is through the class in which the ridesince danger may be present. You will see a lot of
was ranked. Most white water rafting companiesWhitewater through this ride. There are continuous
provide the class level next to the trip. For example,waves, rapids and drops, so one must have the
beginners might choose a class 1 or 2 level trip, whileability and knowledge to steer the raft precisely. Skill
the more experienced might enjoy a class 4 or 5.Level: Advanced - Experience necessary.
Below ranks the classes and their skill level needed.Class 6: Class 6 trips are for the fearless and require
Class 1: Class 1 trips typically have very few roughexpert experience. During this trip one might
areas, meaning the ride will be smooth and relaxing.encounter large waves and rocks around every
Paddling the raft will take place, but this class requirescorner. The large rocks and drops present much
no skill. Skill level: No experience or skill needed fordanger and if one does not have expert skill is sure
this class trip.to encounter troubles. Many times warnings are
Class 2: Class 2 trips are most likely the type ofpresent since there is the risk of injury or death. No
adventure beginner rafters are looking for becauseequipment or training can prepare one for the
while most the trip is smooth, there are areas ofexperience they might encounter on a class 6 ride.
rough water small drops sure to provide a rush. SkillSkill Level: Must have expert skills and lots of
Level: No previous experience, but one must be ableexperience.
to paddle the raft as part of a group.